Missouri library system accuses Ashcroft of book banning over proposed rule change

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – St. Louis County Public Libraries are clashing with Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft over his proposed rule change for libraries and their inclusion of age-appropriate materials in their collections.

Ashcroft, a Republican considering running for governor in 2024, wants libraries to adopt written policies establishing age-appropriate guidelines for adding books or hosting events, allowing parents or guardians to determine which materials will be available to minors. The proposal forbids state library funding for materials that “appeal to the prurient interest of any minor.”

“That means erotic,” Ashcroft said. “That means salacious. That means pornographic. That’s the dictionary definition.”

The full article can be read at ozarksfirst.com.